No, milk is not a good source of iron. In fact, it's quite the opposite. Milk and dairy products are considered poor sources of iron and can even interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron from other foods and supplements.
Why Milk Isn't a Good Iron Source:
- Low Iron Content: Milk naturally contains very little iron.
- Absorption Interference: Milk's components hinder the absorption of iron from other dietary sources.
- Potential for Blood Loss: Excessive milk consumption, particularly in children, may lead to minor intestinal bleeding, resulting in iron loss through blood. This is because excessive cow's milk can cause microscopic damage to the intestines. (Reference: Milk and milk substitutes are poor sources of iron. Excessive cow's milk can cause microscopic damage to the intestines and cause small amounts of blood loss. When blood is lost, iron is lost with it.)
Several sources confirm this: The CDC highlights that infants need iron from sources other than breast milk after about six months. Furthermore, a study on iron deficiency anemia directly links excessive milk consumption to decreased iron absorption and an increased risk of deficiency. (https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/-/media/nch/for-medical-professionals/practice-tools-new/iron-deficiency-anemia-related-to-milk-consumption.ashx) This is further supported by information from Children's Minnesota (https://www.childrensmn.org/educationmaterials/childrensmn/article/18603/milk-free-diet-for-iron-deficiency-anemia-/) and Cedars-Sinai (https://www.cedars-sinai.org/content/dam/cedars-sinai/programs-and-services/blood-donor/documents/iron-rich-foods.pdf). These sources emphasize that dairy products, including milk, are not rich in iron and can negatively affect iron absorption.
For individuals needing to increase their iron intake, it is crucial to focus on iron-rich foods like red meat, beans, and leafy green vegetables.
